Cook Island Natural Launches New Range of Products

Cook Island Natural adds a new range of traditional Maori products, hand-carved by local craftsmen, to its diverse retail inventory.

April 28, 2004 -- With the box office success of the New Zealand film The Whale Rider, Maori products are set to become the next big thing.

This wonderful story is typical of those that exist among many Maori populations around Polynesia. For example, Cook Islanders believe their ancestors colonized New Zealand more than 650 years ago. The brave sailors set out for New Zealand in seven Vakas (canoes) from Muri Lagoon, Rarotonga on what is known as the Great Migration. A monument commemorating this event is located in Ngatangiia Harbour, Rarotonga.

To share this celebration of Maori culture, Cook Island Natural has added a new range of traditional Maori products to the most diverse Cook Islands retail inventory on the internet. Company Director, Adam Murphy said In light of the increasing interest in Maori culture, it is exciting to have an opportunity to share examples of traditional Cook Islands crafts with our customers.

The new product range includes; Maori Jewelry, carved from pearl shell & polished to a stunning finish & a range of beautifully hand-carved wooden items such as a statue of Tangaroa (the God of Fertility & of the Seas) and a traditional Maori Warriors club.

More information on local Maori culture and a full list of products can be found at Cook Island Natural - http://www.cookislandnatural.com.

For information on the film the Whale Rider visit http://www.whaleriderthemovie.com

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